This taco salad is a fun twist on a classic, featuring crunchy Doritos, seasoned beef, and fresh veggies. It’s quick to make and perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a tasty meal in minutes! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy that nacho cheese flavor? 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: Nacho Cheese Doritos are a must for that classic flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might substitute them with baked tortilla chips or even some crunchy taco shells broken into pieces.
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for this recipe, but ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black bean crumbles for a similar texture.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is easy, but homemade is always great if you have the spices (like cumin, paprika, and chili powder) on hand. It allows you to control the flavor and spice levels.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re short on time, you can replace them with canned chickpeas or kidney beans, which will still give you good texture and nutrition!
Cheese: I prefer cheddar cheese for this salad, but feel free to swap it out for Mexican blend cheese, pepper jack for a kick, or even a dairy-free cheese substitute.
How Do I Keep My Doritos Crunchy in the Salad?
Keeping the Doritos crunchy is key to enjoying this salad fully. Here are some tips:
- **Serve Immediately:** Add the Doritos just before serving. If they sit too long in the salad, they can get soggy.
- **Toss Gently:** When mixing, be gentle! You don’t want to crush the Doritos too much.
- **Dress Last:** Consider drizzling the salsa or taco sauce just before you serve it. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the chips from becoming too soft.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy every bite of your delicious taco salad with the perfect crunch from the Doritos!
Easy Doritos Taco Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 oz) bag Nacho Cheese Doritos, slightly crushed
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa or taco sauce
- Optional: 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and assemble. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun lunch option! No waiting or complicated cooking here—just mix and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s fully browned, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
2. Season Your Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Then, add the taco seasoning mix and about 2/3 cup of water (check the seasoning packet for exact water measurements). Stir everything together and let it simmer for around 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Afterward, remove it from heat.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, black olives, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and optional corn. This mixture is bright and full of flavor!
4. Add the Beef:
Carefully add the seasoned ground beef on top of your salad mixture. This will give the salad its main flavor and protein.
5. Add the Sauces and Crunch:
Drizzle the salsa or taco sauce evenly over the salad. Then, sprinkle the crushed Doritos on top for that satisfying crunch!
6. Top it Off:
Lastly, sprinkle shredded cheese over everything, and add a dollop of sour cream right in the center. This adds a creamy touch to the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, gently toss the salad to combine all the flavors while keeping the Doritos crispy. Enjoy your easy Doritos Taco Salad immediately for a fresh, satisfying meal!
Now, dig in and enjoy every tasty bite of this quick and fun salad! 🙌🌿
FAQ for Easy Doritos Taco Salad
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors of this salad!
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own by mixing 1 tsp each of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. This blend will give you a similar flavor to the store-bought seasoning.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, to keep the Doritos crunchy, it’s best to store them separately and add them just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black bean crumbles, or even quinoa for a tasty vegetarian version. Just season them in a similar way to keep the robust flavors!
